Regular meditation takes years off of the brain

posted Apr 25, 2016, 7:44 PM by Ann Lee

Researchers of a new study found that regular meditation can trigger the growth of new brain cells, taking up to 7 years off the brain of a middle-aged person.

The study observed the brains of 50 men and women who practiced
meditation and 50 people who did not meditate. The participants who
practiced meditation performed traditional meditation for an average of
20 years. The brain scans were analyzed to determine the age of each
brain based on its physical condition.

Published in the journal Neurolmage, the study revealed that
non-meditators' brain age were the same as their actual age. However,
brains of people who practiced meditation appeared to have brains seven
years younger than their actual age.

For every extra year past the age of 50, a person who meditated added
an extra year off brain age.

How? Meditation reduces stress and protects the brain. Meditation techniques also help build up certain parts of brain similar
to body building. In addition, those who meditate
may lead a healthier lifestyle in general.